Assessment of Nutritional Status of Pregnant Women by Mid Upper Arm Circumference Indicator and Related Different Epidemiological Variables in Al-Samawah City

Abstract

Background: Nutrition is essential during pregnancy, affecting maternal and child health. Mid- Upper
Arm Circumference is a low-cost measure of nutritional status.
Objective: To assess the nutritional status of pregnant women in Al-Samawah City using Mid-
Upper Arm Circumference, the association between pregnant women nutritional status Mid Upper Arm
Circumference and socio-demographic factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among
400 pregnant women. sample distributed throughout (Al-Hussein
Teaching Hospital, Maternity and Children's Teaching Hospital, and Samawah Primary
Healthcare Sector). The data collection period started on 21, December 2025 to 1, March 2026. The
questionnaire reliability was assessed.
Result: The results showed that there was no significant association between age and nutritional status
(P=0.284), and maternal education and MUAC categories did not significantly correlate (P=0.367),
Furthermore, shorter intervals <2 years were more common in the at-
risk/malnourished group (60.0%), there was significant association with inter-pregnancy interval
(P=0.016). BMI and MUAC categories were significantly correlated (P=0.0001).There was a significant
association (p=0.022) between MUAC and a history of ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage. were more likely
to be overweight or have normal MUAC. Furthermore, gestational weight increase and MUAC had a
significant association (p=0.006).Hematological markers, biochemical indicators, physical activity level,
did not substantially associated with MUAC.